Baked Macaroni And Cheese Casserole
Creamy baked macaroni and cheese with sharp Cheddar, offering a comforting, cheesy flavor perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, alternate layers of cooked elbow macaroni and grated Cheddar cheese, starting and ending with cheese.
- Prepare the sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan; remove from heat.
- Blend in sifted flour; gradually stir in milk, then season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the layered macaroni and cheese in the casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining grated cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the milk mixture. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, a mix of Gruyère and Monterey Jack works well too. To enhance flavors, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder to the cheese sauce. Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This baked macaroni and cheese casserole is perfect as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a twist, serve it alongside BBQ chicken or grilled sausages. For dessert, consider an American classic like Georgia Peach Pie to finish off your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Macaroni And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 748 calories, with 38g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (87% of the Daily Value), protein (76% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1095mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
You can add cooked vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Mixing in some cooked chicken or ground turkey can also boost protein content while complementing the creamy cheese sauce.
Can I freeze baked macaroni and cheese?
Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, or bake from frozen at a lower temperature for a longer time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).